Wayne Rooney has reiterated his commitment to England after being dropped by Gareth Southgate for the game against Slovenia.
Rooney, who asked to attend Monday’s press conference, says that he will support his players as captain from the sidelines and around the hotel.
“I understand and respect manager’s decision,” Rooney said. “I’ll support the players 100%.
“I will be ready if needed. I love playing for my country. My plans won’t change.
“Of course you want to be on the pitch – that goes without saying. My role as captain doesn’t change off the pitch, around the hotel.
“It’s football. He’s got 23 players. A time comes when you’re not the first name on the team sheet.”
Rooney was asked if he would like to be introduced as a substitute, but said he would rather not play and England win.
“I’m positive,” he said. “I want to play but I’m in a positive frame of mind. Hopefully I don’t have to come on to try and help us win it.”
Asked about the booing by certain sections of England’s support during the game against Malta on Saturday, Rooney gave a curt answer: “I wasn’t aware of it.”
Southgate confirmed that Jordan Henderson would be England captain in Rooney’s absence, __with Eric Dier starting the game after injury.